The Treasury's research centre housed in the former Carnegie Free Library building
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Treasury Research Centre and Archive

4.1
·8 reviews·Thames, New Zealand

A vital hub for local history and family research in Thames, offering extensive archives and helpful staff within a beautiful historic building.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds for focused research

CrowdLow
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The Treasury's research centre housed in the former Carnegie Free Library building

Treasury Research Centre and Archive

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds for focused research

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vital hub for local history and family research in Thames, offering extensive archives and helpful staff within a beautiful historic building.

4.1
(8 reviews)

"An excellent reference establishment for the history of Thames, Coromandel and Hauraki plains. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Confirm Fees Beforehand

Research charges can be significant; confirm current rates before your visit. :moneybag:

Bring Notebooks

Photography isn't allowed, so pack notebooks for taking detailed notes. :pencil2:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historical Research

Historical Research

Main Archive Hall

Dive deep into local history, family trees, and Coromandel heritage with expert assistance.

Reddit
Architectural Gem

Architectural Gem

Exterior

Admire the beautiful, well-maintained architecture of this historic building.

Reddit
Family History Assistance

Family History Assistance

Research Desks

Receive top-rate assistance from staff and volunteers for your family history research.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Fees

Be prepared for research fees, which can be around $15 per hour per person, including volunteer assistance. Photocopying is also available at an additional cost. Reddit

Photography Restrictions

Note that photography is generally not permitted inside the archive. You'll need to rely on taking notes or using their photocopying services. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for focused research
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Volunteer assistance available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Confirm Fees Beforehand

Research charges can be significant; confirm current rates before your visit. Reddit :moneybag:

Bring Notebooks

Photography isn't allowed, so pack notebooks for taking detailed notes. Reddit :pencil2:

Plan Your Research

Have specific questions or family names ready for efficient research assistance. Reddit :mag:

Appreciate the Building

Take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture of the historic building. Reddit :building_construction:

Tips

from all over the internet

Confirm Fees Beforehand

Research charges can be significant; confirm current rates before your visit. Reddit :moneybag:

Bring Notebooks

Photography isn't allowed, so pack notebooks for taking detailed notes. Reddit :pencil2:

Plan Your Research

Have specific questions or family names ready for efficient research assistance. Reddit :mag:

Appreciate the Building

Take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture of the historic building. Reddit :building_construction:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(8 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Treasury Research Centre and Archive is praised for its valuable historical records and helpful staff, particularly for family history research. However, some visitors have expressed dissatisfaction with the fee structure and the prohibition of photography, feeling the charges are high and not clearly communicated. Reddit

"I went to this archive where they attempted to extort money even before I got into the door. They have a monopoly on the local archives as both the local museum and the local library have surrendered their material to the Treasury. There is literally nowhere else you can go.

I complained to both the Treasury and the local council and they said they would look into it. Checking a year later and they had done nothing. If you want to do your own research in person, then this is the official response as at 19 November 2018:

"The charges are:

$15.00 per person for a hours research. This also includes assistance from one of our volunteers to help you find the material.
We do not allow photographs to be taken, but yes photocopying is available at 20 cents per Black & White A4 sheet or you can take notes".

Note that the above information regarding the details of their exorbitant charges was nowhere to be found on their website as of November 2018. They just want you to come to the door and then they confront you - take it or leave it.

After having travelled around New Zealand for 15 months doing research, The Treasury was by far the worst experience I had. The majority of museums and libraries were very helpful and are a credit to their localities. I was very happy to pay a contribution or make a donation, especially for a private Museum. But The Treasury holds its information to ransome and by doing so reflects badly on the local community.

Their management could not even understand when I raised the irony that they occupy the old Carnegie Library in Thames. Carnegie’s bequest was intended to help communities by providing access to knowledge via free public libraries."

Mori Flapan

"Nice architecture building, was here 3 months ago"

Kim OanhHoang

"This is an excellent reference establishment for the history of Thames, Coromandel and Hauraki plains. A beautiful building, well maintained."

Beverley Groves

What People Like

Valuable historical records
Helpful staff and volunteers
Beautiful building architecture

What People Dislike

High research fees
No photography allowed
Unclear fee communication

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Treasury Research Centre and Archive is located in Thames. Specific public transport options may vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules or consider driving. Parking availability should also be confirmed closer to your visit date. Reddit

Information on dedicated parking for the Treasury Research Centre and Archive is not widely available. It's advisable to research local parking options in Thames before your arrival. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are research fees, typically around $15 per person per hour, which includes assistance from a volunteer. Photocopying services are also available at an additional cost. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's a good idea to contact the Treasury Research Centre and Archive directly to inquire about booking requirements, especially if you plan to conduct extensive research. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check the official website or contact the archive directly for the most up-to-date information on their operating times. Reddit

No, photography is generally not permitted inside the archive. Visitors are encouraged to take notes or use the available photocopying services. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The archive holds a significant collection of local history materials for Thames, Coromandel, and the Hauraki Plains, making it an excellent resource for family history and historical research. Reddit

Yes, the research fees typically include assistance from volunteers who can help you find the materials you need for your research. Reddit

Before visiting, have a clear idea of what you are looking for, such as specific family names, dates, or historical events, to make your research session more efficient. Reddit

According to one visitor's experience, the Treasury Research Centre and Archive has consolidated material from the local museum and library, making it the primary location for local archives. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities mentioned within the Treasury Research Centre and Archive itself. Visitors may need to explore dining options in the surrounding Thames area. Reddit

It's generally advisable to avoid bringing food and drinks into archival spaces to protect the historical documents. Check with the archive directly for their specific policies. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is not permitted inside the Treasury Research Centre and Archive. Visitors are encouraged to take notes or use their photocopying services. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, exterior photography is usually permitted for most public buildings. However, it's always best to be mindful of any signage or local regulations. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Genealogy Enthusiasts

For those passionate about tracing their family roots, the Treasury Research Centre and Archive is a key destination. The archive offers 'top rate assistance from the staff on my family history research,' making it easier to navigate potentially complex records. Reddit Be prepared for the research fees and the no-photography policy, and come with a clear plan of the family names and time periods you wish to investigate. Reddit

Given that this archive holds consolidated materials from local museums and libraries, it's likely to be a comprehensive resource for the Thames, Coromandel, and Hauraki Plains regions. Planning a dedicated block of time for research is recommended to make the most of the hourly fees and volunteer assistance. Reddit

History Buffs and Local Researchers

This archive is an 'excellent reference establishment for the history of Thames, Coromandel and Hauraki plains.' Reddit If you're looking to delve into the local heritage, understand historical events, or research specific aspects of the region, this is the place to go. The staff and volunteers are noted for their helpfulness, which can be invaluable when sifting through extensive records. Reddit

Remember the fee structure and the prohibition on photography. Reddit Having specific research questions or topics in mind will help you maximize your time and the assistance provided. The beautiful building itself adds to the historical ambiance of your visit.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Research Fees and Policies

Visitors to the Treasury Research Centre and Archive should be aware of the fee structure. One reviewer noted a charge of $15 per person for one hour of research, which includes assistance from a volunteer. Reddit Photocopying is available at 20 cents per Black & White A4 sheet. It's important to note that these charges were not clearly advertised on their website as of November 2018, leading to potential surprise upon arrival. Reddit

This fee structure has been a point of contention for some visitors, who feel it's an 'extortion' given the archive's monopoly on local historical documents. Reddit The irony of occupying the former Carnegie Library, a space intended for free access to knowledge, has also been highlighted. Reddit Visitors are advised to confirm all fees and policies directly with the archive before their visit to avoid any misunderstandings.

Furthermore, photography is strictly prohibited within the archive. Reddit This means researchers will need to rely on taking notes or utilizing the photocopying services to document their findings. Planning your research in advance and being prepared to take thorough notes will be crucial for a productive visit.

The Architectural Significance

The Treasury Research Centre and Archive is housed in a building that is itself a point of interest. Described as a 'beautiful building, well maintained,' its architecture is a draw for visitors. Reddit The structure holds historical significance, particularly as it occupies the site of the old Carnegie Library in Thames. Reddit

This architectural aspect adds to the overall experience of visiting the archive. While the primary purpose is research, the aesthetic appeal of the building provides a pleasant backdrop for delving into local history. Visitors have commented positively on its appearance, suggesting it's worth appreciating even if you're not there for extensive research. Reddit

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